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Middle Country Central School District

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Centereach High School Student of the Month Meaghan Grieco
Newfield High School Student of the Month Charlotte Farrugia
Dawnwood Middle School Student of the Month Aurelio Luna
Selden Middle School Student of the Month Emily Makiani

The Middle Country Central School District recently announced the recipients of the March 2025 Students of the Month honors. The award recognizes students for their exceptional academic achievements, leadership, and contributions to their school communities. This month, four outstanding students were selected: Meaghan Grieco from Centereach High School, Charlotte Farrugia from Newfield High School, Aurelio Luna from Dawnwood Middle School, and Emily Makiani from Selden Middle School.

Meaghan Grieco is a standout athlete, musician, and student leader whose GPA has her ranked just outside of the top 10 percent in her graduating class. She has taken a rigorous schedule over her four years, including five Advanced Placement courses and eight college level courses. Meanwhile, she has proven herself in college courses that also span all disciplines including electives such as College Virtual Enterprise and College Business Law. She has successfully taken advantage of all that our district offers.

Meaghan has played Varsity Volleyball and Varsity Basketball since her freshman year. In volleyball, she was a four-year starter and captain who earned All-League Honors twice and All-Classification honors while leading her team to the playoffs this year. In basketball, she was voted the Rookie of the Year award her freshman year by the varsity basketball coaches in her league. Meaghan was also recognized by the coaches as an All-League player the past two years. Due to an injury she sustained in volleyball, Meaghan required surgery and had to sit out this basketball season. Nevertheless, she played an integral role to the team’s success this year. She was at every practice and game, providing the players with encouraging words and the coaches with suggestions and advice. Meaghan has been a member of the Wind Ensemble for the past two years, playing Tenor Saxophone, and a member of the Tri-M Music Honor Society for the past four years, with which she has volunteered at various school and community service events. Next year, Meaghan plans to study to become a pediatric nurse at SUNY Farmingdale.  There she also plans to continue playing volleyball as she is almost all healed from her injury. 

Charlotte Farrugia is ranked 31 out of 383 seniors with a weighted GPA of 98.5370. She has the potential to graduate in June with more than 25 college credits. Through her high school career and currently she’s a member of Dr. Gerold’s leadership committee, DECA, Glamour Gals, The Environmental Club, Tri-M Music Honor Society, and The Foreign Language Honor Society. She also serves as the secretary of the National Honor Society, secretary of the newspaper club, vice president of the Quill and Scroll Honor Society, and secretary of the class of 2025. She was also the winner of the Middle Country Career Exploration Award last spring. In addition to her academic career, Charlotte works as a babysitter for multiple families, was a seasonal farm worker at Harbes Farm in Riverhead, is a council member on the Teen Advisory Council at the Middle Country Public Library, volunteers at Holy Cross Roman Catholic Church assisting the outreach program and is a girl scout who last June earned her Gold Award. Charlotte plans to attend Stony Brook University in the fall with the plan of working toward becoming certified library media specialist or teacher.

Aurelio Luna plays the cello in both the 8th grade Orchestra and the Chamber Orchestra. He is always ready to help or participate in class and goes above and beyond in everything he does. Aurelio’s overall average for his sixth and seventh-grade school years is 94.2 and Aurelio’s average for the first and second quarter of this school year is 93.2. Aurelio is involved in many activities at Dawnwood. He is the president of our National Junior Honor Society, a member of the eight-grade orchestra, chamber orchestra, peer leadership club, the singing club, and the student activities club. Aurelio is also a member of drama club, where last year he played the leading role of Sebastian in our production of the Little Mermaid. Outside of school, Aurelio is part of a group that perform songs in sign language for the community. Aurelio also loves playing with his three dogs and singing karaoke.

Emily Makiani has been described by teachers as humble, hardworking, motivated, and kind. She finished her sixth-grade year with an overall yearly average of 98.3 and bested that in seventh grade with an overall yearly average of 98.4. Looking at her quarterly grades this year, she is set to have her best year yet as she had a nearly perfect first quarter report card two 99s and five 100s. Having spoken to Emily about her dedication to her studies, I am quite sure she will keep up that exceptional work. Emily is a member of the National Junior Honor Society and enjoyed her community service work where she prepared and packed lunches for those in need. She likes to write stories and is enjoying reading S.E. Hinton’s The Outsiders right now.

For more information regarding the Middle Country Central School District and its students’ many achievements, please visit the District’s website: https://www.mccsd.net/.

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Ahmed Malik and Cemal Tastan. Photo courtesy Middle Country Central School District

Centereach High School has announced that two of its standout students, Ahmed Malik and Cemal Tastan, have earned first place in the prestigious Financial Services Team Decision-Making event at a recent DECA competition. This impressive accomplishment has secured them a spot to represent Centereach High School at the New York State Career Conference in Rochester this March.

The New York State Career Conference will bring together over 3,000 talented students from across the state, where Ahmed and Cemal will have the opportunity to showcase their knowledge and decision-making skills in front of industry professionals. The event will feature role-playing scenarios where students engage with business leaders, demonstrating their ability to solve real-world challenges in a competitive setting.

DECA is a globally recognized organization that provides high school and college students with the opportunity to prepare for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management. It plays an essential role in fostering emerging leaders and entrepreneurs, equipping them with the tools they need for future success in the business world.

“We are incredibly proud of Ahmed and Cemal’s hard work and dedication,” said Thomas Bell. Centereach High School principal. “Their achievement showcases their talents and highlights the strong foundation of leadership and business skills fostered at Centereach High School. We wish them the best of luck as they continue their journey at the New York State Career Conference!”

This recognition reflects the commitment of Centereach High School’s DECA program to preparing students for success in a variety of fields, and we look forward to seeing Amad and Cemal compete at the next level.

For more information regarding the Middle Country Central School District and its students’ many achievements, please visit the District’s website: https://www.mccsd.net/.     

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Centereach High School

By Peter Sloniewsky

Middle Country Central School District Board of Education convened a regular meeting Jan. 22 at Centereach High School. At the meeting, they covered a variety of matters, including provisions for special education. 

The board approved committee recommendations from a series of past meetings with regard to special education. Specifically, they provided the programs and services recommended by meetings of the Committee on Pre-School Special Education, Sub-Committee on Special Education and the district administration office’s annual review. 

They also replaced some of the district’s impartial hearing officers. The IHOs oversee due-process hearings requested by parents or school districts regarding disputes over individualized education programs for special-education students, class placement decisions, services and accommodations for such students and disciplinary action for students with disabilities. 

In New York, IHOs are independent and neutral individuals certified by the New York State Education Department who are assigned cases on a rotational basis. At this meeting, the board approved the addition of four new IHOs and removed four existing IHOs. 

Lastly, on the point of special education, the board approved a contract with the therapy agency Little Angels Center to continue to work alongside students’ individualized education plans throughout the remainder of the school year. 

Assistant Superintendent for Business Beth Rella presented a report on property-tax exemptions that reduce a property’s assessed value before taxes have been calculated. She covered the exemptions that the district is both enrolled in and has opted into, including some basic points as to how they’re set. 

After the opening executive session, the board recognized the elementary students of the month: Thomas Castelli, Kayla Kowalczyk, David O’Leary and Aubrie Riccio. They then presented a certificate of appreciation to the owners of Salvino’s Pizzeria in Selden for providing free Thanksgiving Day meals to hundreds of families. 

The board also gave Athlete of the Month awards to Madelyn Madrigal (basketball), Andrew DiMondo (wrestling), Sheyla Lynton (basketball), Ryan Hicks (basketball), Anthony Cardiello IV (fencing) and Ava Kahler (track and field). 

Lastly, the board approved past treasurer’s reports, minutes from their last meeting, a listing of extracurricular classroom activity and the calendar for the 2025-2026 school year and opened the floor for 40 minutes of public comment. 

The board will meet next Feb. 5, 7 p.m., at Centereach High School.

For more information visit the school website: www.mccsd.net.

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Four members of the New Lane Memorial Elementary School Safety Patrol being honored for their bravery. Photo courtesy of MCCSD

By Peter Sloniewsky

The Middle Country Central School District Board of Education met Nov. 20 to focus on various administrative, celebratory and policy matters. 

The board approved several consent agenda items, including personnel changes, special education arrangements and financial updates. They also approved an extension with the Town of Brookhaven Highway Department. At the end of the meeting, they voted to serve disciplinary charges against two individuals associated with the district. 

The board recognized the elementary students of the month, secondary students of the month and athletes of the month across the district. Math teacher Kristyn Cayea was honored with a Certificate of Pride for her acceptance to the Master Teacher Program through the State University of New York. 

The board also watched a number of presentations. A report from PTA President Lynn McMillin  as well as an instructional overview of the district’s social studies curriculum by Director of World Studies Amy Pacifico were presented. Then, Superintendent Roberta Gerold discussed regionalization and proposals to better unify needs for districts across the state. 

The next board meeting will be held Dec. 18 at 7:00 p.m.

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Selden Middle School student, Jeanlee Marcano Robles
Newfield High School student, Diya John
Dawnwood Middle School student, Adam Khazanovich
Centereach High School student, Alexa Carmody

The Middle Country Central School District is proud to announce its Students of the Month for October: Jeanlee Marcano Robles from Selden Middle School, Adam Khazanovich from Dawnwood Middle School, Diya John from Newfield High School, and Alexa Carmody from Centereach High School. These remarkable students have demonstrated exceptional academic achievements, leadership skills, and commitment to their school communities.

Jeanlee is celebrated by her teachers for her respectful and polite demeanor. Despite balancing a busy schedule filled with sports and extracurricular activities, she remains dedicated to her studies, consistently earning honor roll status. Throughout her middle school career, Jeanlee has maintained excellent grades, and achieved honor roll recognition in six of her first eight quarters. She is well on her way to continuing this success in her eighth-grade year.

A vibrant and energetic presence in the classroom, Adam has been a member of the Board Game Club for three years and currently serves as its president. With an impressive overall average of 98.8 in his previous grades and a 99.7 for the first quarter of this year, Adam’s academic excellence is matched by his involvement in multiple activities, including the 8th-grade orchestra, soccer, and various music lessons. Adam aspires to be a doctor or lawyer and dreams of giving tours in Iceland after a recent visit that he found truly spectacular.

Diya is an exceptional student, currently holding the top position in her class with a 103.1 weighted GPA. By the end of this school year, she will have completed 17 advanced placement and college-level classes, potentially graduating with over 50 college credits. Outside the classroom, Diya actively participates in various clubs and community service initiatives, including the National Honor Society, Mock Trial Team, and youth volunteer work with the American Red Cross. She plans to major in psychology, aspiring to become a psychiatrist and follow in her mother’s footsteps in the mental health field.An academically outstanding student, Alexa is set to graduate having taken five AP courses and six additional college courses. She serves as president of the National Honor Society, leading initiatives that benefit the community. In addition to her academic achievements, Alexa has excelled in athletics as captain of the basketball team and showcases her musical talent as a member of the Select Vocal Ensemble. She is currently exploring colleges with a focus on forensic psychology and pre-law.

For more information regarding the Middle Country Central School District and its students’ many achievements, please visit the District’s website: https://www.mccsd.net/.

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A scene from the Centereach High School Music Department’s car wash. Courtesy MCCSD
A scene from the Centereach High School Music Department’s car wash. Courtesy MCCSD
A scene from the Centereach High School Music Department’s car wash. Courtesy MCCSD
A scene from the Centereach High School Music Department’s car wash. Courtesy MCCSD
A scene from the Centereach High School Music Department’s car wash. Courtesy MCCSD
A scene from the Centereach High School Music Department’s car wash. Courtesy MCCSD

The Centereach High School music department recently held a successful car wash fundraiser at Applebee’s in Lake Grove, raising funds for their upcoming spring trip to Disney.

Held in the parking lot of the popular restaurant, the event drew a steady stream of vehicles as students washed and polished cars to support their cause. Their efforts helped generate vital funds and showcased their dedication and teamwork.

Adding a special touch to the day, the Centereach Fire Department brought fire trucks to be washed, further boosting community engagement. The collaboration highlighted the strong community spirit and created a memorable experience for participants.

“The support we received from the community and the Centereach Fire Department was incredible,” said Brian Hough, a Centereach High School music teacher. “It’s heartwarming to see such enthusiasm for our students and their upcoming trip. Every dollar raised will go toward giving our students an unforgettable experience.”

The funds raised will go toward expenses related to the spring music trip, where students will have the opportunity to perform and learn in new environments. The music department expressed its gratitude to Applebee’s, the fire department, and all who came out to support the event. The community’s generosity continues to play a crucial role in creating opportunities for local students.

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METRO photo

By Peter Sloniewsky

Middle Country Central School District Board of Education met Sept. 10 at a special meeting to discuss a range of agenda items centered around a food-services presentation. 

This presentation, given on behalf of the district’s food service team, began with a review of the mission statement, staff and partnership details with Whitsons Culinary Group of Islandia. The presenters then spoke about eligibility for free and reduced-price school lunches. The district is approved to serve no-charge breakfast and lunch meals daily for the upcoming school year but encourages households to fill out the Household Income Eligibility Form to qualify for such programs in the future. 

The presentation covered a recent history of financial and sales data, which reflected a recent trend of budget surplus. According to the presenters, this positive funds balance was used entirely to enhance the school lunch program, exemplified by the purchase of a large replacement oven and the completion of a freezer project during the past school year. 

The presenters then conveyed their plans for the future. The team has been pushing the Household Income Eligibility Form and plans to continue advocacy for free meals. They also listed some concerns with the rising costs of running such an operation, the continual push for grant money and issues with staff retention, before concluding with a more thorough push for universal free meals. 

After the presentation, a number of routine items were addressed. Board President Dawn Sharrock was approved to act as the voting delegate for the district at the New York State School Board Association Virtual Annual Business Meeting Oct. 10, and in New York City at the Annual Convention and Education Expo Oct. 20-22. The board also approved a major field trip to Washington, D.C. 

The next BOE meeting will be Oct. 16 at Centereach High School at 7 p.m.

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Muccio siblings at their lemonade stand raising funds for school supplies. Courtesy MCCSD

The three Muccio siblings — Isabella, an 11th grader; Michael, a 7th grader; Giavanna, a 5th grader; and Madelyn, a 2nd grader — have exceeded their fundraising goals through a dedicated lemonade stand effort.

These enterprising young individuals worked diligently during their summer vacations to support children in need within the Middle Country Central School District community. Operating their lemonade stand for 18 hours over the course of three days, they amassed a total of $1,317. All proceeds will be used to purchase essential school supplies and backpacks for students in need.

Muccio siblings at Walmart to purchase school supplies. Courtesy MCCSD

On the evening of Aug. 4, the Muccio siblings visited Walmart and Target to purchase supplies and backpacks, and they will continue their shopping in the coming days.

The Muccio family’s initiative received tremendous support from the community, including friends, neighbors, teachers and staff. The Muccio family believes that the collective generosity and enthusiasm played a pivotal role in the success of this fundraiser.

“We are incredibly proud of Isabella, Michael, Giavanna, and Madelyn for their hard work and dedication,” said Roberta Gerold, superintendent of schools. “Their selflessness and commitment to helping others is truly inspiring. We are deeply grateful to everyone who supported their cause and helped make this fundraiser successful.”

Muccio siblings at Target picking up backpacks. Courtesy MCCSD

For more information regarding the Middle Country Central School District and its students’ achievements, please visit the district’s website at www.mccsd.net.

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Scenes from Centereach High School’s graduation. Photos courtesy MCCSD

Middle Country Central School District celebrates 2024 high school graduates

Newfield High School and Centereach High School, of Middle Country Central School District, hosted respective commencement ceremonies for their 2024 graduating classes Thursday, June 27.

The ceremonies highlighted the achievements of the graduating seniors, while looking forward to their futures.

The event was attended by students, families, faculty and distinguished guests.

“Congratulations to the exceptional Class of 2024. These remarkable young individuals have positively influenced the Middle Country community through their academic and personal accomplishments, excelling in academics, creativity and athletics,” said Scott Graviano, principal of Newfield High School.

During the graduation ceremonies, the Class of 2024’s valedictorian and salutatorian took the podium to reflect on the last four years of their high school journeys, and expressed their gratitude to their teachers, parents and peers. The valedictorians are Michael Cosmo for Centereach and Saitta Roy for Newfield. The salutatorians are Gregory Mears for Centereach and Danica Lyktey for Newfield. 

“I am immensely proud of the Class of 2024, and all they have accomplished,” said Centereach High School principal, Thomas Bell. “I’d like to thank our teachers, staff and families for their relentless support and dedication to our students’ success. We look forward to seeing the amazing futures this class will create.” 

For more information regarding Middle Country Central School District and its students’ achievements, please visit the district’s website at www.mccsd.net.

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Middle Country Central School District. File photo

The Middle Country Central School District announced that Michael Cosmo from Centereach High School and Saitta Roy from Newfield High School are their schools’ respective Class of 2024 valedictorians, while Gregory Mears from Centereach High School and Danica Lyktey from Newfield High School are the salutatorians.

Throughout their four years in high school, these students excelled academically, were active community members, and participated in various extracurricular activities.

Centereach High School Class of 2024 valedictorian Michael Cosmo achieved outstanding academic success during his high school tenure. His weighted GPA of 103.9 is a testament to his dedication and hard work. Michael’s academic achievements include completing 13 AP classes and two additional college-level courses. He is a member of the National Honor Society, the Spanish Honor Society, and the Tri-M Music Honor Society.

Beyond academics, Michael has made significant contributions to all facets of Centereach High School. He serves as the GO treasurer, demonstrating his leadership and involvement in school activities. Michael’s talents extend to the arts and athletics as well. He excels as a musician, playing the trumpet in the school’s jazz band and pit orchestra, and as a varsity basketball player and captain of the varsity tennis team. He has been recognized as an Academic All-County player by Suffolk County basketball coaches.

Moreover, Michael has shown a commitment to community service, tutoring elementary students, volunteering at basketball camps, and participating in Tri-M Music Honor Society-sponsored events. After graduation, Michael plans to pursue a career in law at Georgetown University, building on his internships with local lawmakers during high school.

Centereach High School Class of 2024 salutatorian Gregory Mears also achieved academic success. His combined SAT score of 1530 places him in the top 1% of all students nationally. Gregory has completed 11 AP classes and four additional college-level courses, earning recognition as an AP Scholar with Distinction and a National Merit Scholarship Commended student. He is a valued member of the National Honor Society, the French Honor Society, and the Tri-M Music Honor Society.

In addition to his academic achievements, Gregory is deeply involved in Centereach High School’s co-curricular activities. He holds the position of vice president of the science club, co-founded the school’s chess club, and actively participates in Tri-M Music Honor Society-sponsored events. Gregory’s commitment to community service is evident through his hours spent with the Avalon Nature Initiative in Stony Brook. As a talented musician, he serves as principal bassist in the Philharmonic and chamber orchestras. Gregory embodies the spirit of the music department and the Tri-M Music Honor Society. After graduation, Gregory plans to pursue English literature at Colby College in Maine.

Newfield High School Class of 2024 valedictorian Saitta Roy boasts a weighted GPA of 102.19 and will have the potential to graduate in June with more than 30 college credits. She keeps herself busy as a member of the school’s mock trial team, the crochet club, the newspaper club, and the pit orchestra. She is also the vice president of the Tri-M Music Honor Society and president of the National Honor Society.

Outside of school, Saitta works at the Middle Country Public Library and serves as a tutor, also known as a homework pal, for elementary-age students. Saitta has accumulated over 100 hours of community service as a book buddy, making donations to Stony Brook Hospital through the crochet club, serving food at the New Lane Elementary School MVP dance, and running a station at the Bicycle Path Literacy Expo through the National Honor Society. Saitta will be attending the University of Notre Dame, where she will major in mechanical engineering on her way to law school.

Newfield High School Class of 2024 salutatorian Danica Lyktey earned the number two spot out of 324 seniors, maintaining a 101.68 weighted GPA. She took a total of 15 AP and college-level classes throughout her high school career. Danica has the potential to graduate with more than 40 college credits.

Danica is an active member of the Spanish Honor Society, the National Honor Society, and is part of the school’s varsity kickline. Outside of school, she is a competitive dancer at Inspirations Performing Arts Centre and this year she is teaching a class for 3- to 6-year-old students. Danica will be attending SUNY Binghamton in the fall, majoring in psychology.

For more information regarding the Middle Country Central School District and its students’ many achievements, please visit the district’s website: www.mccsd.net.

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